Volunteer

WHY VOLUNTEER?

Wentworth Woodhouse has a dedicated group of volunteers who give their time across a variety of roles – do you think you might like to join them?

People volunteer with us for many reasons – most often as a way of giving something back to the community, and the satisfaction around knowing that they have contributed towards the wellbeing of the house and its preservation for future generations.

Volunteering with us gives you:

• structure to your day and a sense of achievement
• a challenge and an opportunity for personal development
• an opportunity to learn new skills or to use your lifetime skills
• an opportunity to meet others and to make social contact

Can anyone volunteer?

Volunteers are an integral part of the team at Wentworth Woodhouse, and we appoint them with all possible care and attention. There is a simple application form, two references are asked for, and dependent on the role you choose, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. We arrange all this for you, so don’t worry about the process.

No special skills are needed and all relevant training will be given. We have volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life. Some of our volunteers also have full-time jobs in the week and they volunteer for us at the weekend. Couples are also welcome to apply.

Will it cost me anything?

No, you are not expected to be out of pocket for the help you give the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust. We reimburse reasonable travel expenses.

What training will I receive?

Each volunteer role has a written role description clearly stating what the role involves. Wherever possible, new volunteers are placed with more experienced volunteers so you can learn as you go along. You will never be asked to undertake any role for which you have not received appropriate instruction. All our training is provided free of charge.

Is there a minimum amount I have to do each week?

Every role is different. In all areas we can be flexible about the time given. Some volunteers come in several times a week, others less often. We appreciate that many volunteers have a lot of demands on their time so we try to accommodate this by being as flexible as possible.

Do volunteers do the same things as paid staff?

Volunteers usually do not carry out the work of paid staff. Volunteers add quality to the services that we offer by giving their time to support and assist paid staff to provide a high-quality effective service to our visitors in a busy working historic environment.

Is volunteering the same as work experience?

No. Volunteers don’t usually undertake work done by paid staff, and volunteering is not a means of gaining work experience, but of course volunteering can enhance your CV and offer exciting opportunities.

How do I apply to become a volunteer at Wentworth Woodhouse?

Please either telephone or email Alison our Volunteer Coordinator in the first instance: